That has researchers and local Indigenous communities alike spellbound by an extraordinary find. An ancient subtropical wetland revealed under long-lost dune fields along south coast of Australia. Ward, a geo-archaeologist, is currently in the process of coring from an important archaeological site. This site was initially discovered by the Esperance Tjaltjraak Native Title Aboriginal Corporation (ETNTAC). Since 2021, Dr. Ward has been directing her research to explore this fascinating site. It does include some very rare tree stumps, which date back at least 7,000 years, indicating serious historical implications.
While this loss is tragic, the exposure of these ancient tree stumps represents a rare opportunity for scientific research. Indeed, Dr. Ward termed the new discovery “very exciting.” He emphasized the importance of understanding how the wetland’s remnants provide key clues to environmental changes that occurred long ago. This wetland is older than some of the world’s best-known architectural landmarks—including Egypt’s pyramids and Britain’s Stonehenge. Its discovery marks an incredible breakthrough for the study of local history and ecology.
Excavation and Research
Dr. Ward takes measurements in one of the wetland’s core samples. These samples provide a snapshot of nearly 50,000 years of climate and ecological shifts in as little as 40 centimeters of sediment. As she conducted her analysis, she began to notice the lack of preservation of cultural materials within the space. She underscored the evidence of Aboriginal occupation that preceded contemporary settlement by millennia.
“During analysis, we did see evidence of cultural material embedded into the area. It’s pretty well preserved, and it’s highlighting evidence of Aboriginal occupation, way back in those days.” – Ingrid Ward
This exposure comes with risks. Smith’s concern that the site would be subject to degradation with increased visibility and accessibility was shared by Dr. Ward. Accounts of climate change mitigation workers driving through peat layers have sent hundreds into a panic about saving this critical, historical resource.
“Leave this particularly special place alone, wait for it to be covered over,” – Ingrid Ward
Community Involvement
Ronald ‘Doc’ Reynolds, a Wudjari Nyungar Mirning Ngadju elder, has been camped on the land for weeks. He pointed out it was now in Kambarang, one of the six Nyungar seasons. This regulatory rollback would have major impacts on our environmental landscape and protection of nature.
“We know it would have been a freshwater source,” – Ronald “Doc” Reynolds
Reynolds shared her hopes that the alteration in seasonal conditions would aid in protecting the now exposed site from continued destruction. He recognized that proactive steps might need to be taken to protect it for future enjoyment. ETNTAC are doing so in collaboration with local justice administrators. Collectively, they are looking for ways to either supplement protection over the stumps where natural conditions are insufficient.
“We can’t hold nature, but we can try and minimize the effects and also protect what’s already there,” – Ronald “Doc” Reynolds
Visitor Awareness
The beach where the new wetland has formed is a favorite summer spot for locals and tourists. Here’s local resident Mitch Bassett on the recent historic monster swells. He explained how each of these waves washed away most of the protective sand layer, exposing the ancient stumps buried beneath.
“The large swell has washed away most of the sand and exposed apparently some very old tree stumps,” – Mitch Bassett
Now, visitors are flocking to see this extraordinary find. Many fear that the new foot traffic will threaten its pristine integrity. Bassett noted that the beach is still a popular spot. As he pointed out, knowing what makes a site special is the key to saving it.
“[It’s] extremely popular, it’s our favorite beach and I suspect that a lot of tourists are cottoning on to its beauty,” – Mitch Bassett
